Good Morning: The Copenhagen Wheel

This was rolled-out during December's environmental conference in Copenhagen. Although I felt it was a generally good initiative, I have to be honest, I didn't exactly understand why this was such an important invention. I mean, how much energy could this wheel store to give you "the boost" it talks about? But with a little more research, I came to the answer. The description in the video on Youtube provides the following explanation:

"Controlled through your smart phone, the Copenhagen Wheel becomes a natural extension of your everyday life. You can use your phone to unlock and lock your bike, change gears and select how much the motor assists you. As you cycle, the wheels sensing unit is also capturing your effort level and information about your surroundings, including road conditions, carbon monoxide, NOx, noise, ambient temperature and relative humidity. Access this data through your phone or the web and use it to plan healthier bike routes, to achieve your exercise goals or to meet up with friends on the go."

Ok now we're getting somewhere. While this may take some time to go to our end of the world, Copenhagen is known for its extensive (and accessible) bike culture so it only makes sense that the Copenhagen wheel is so aptly named. Hopefully the next mayor of Toronto will share David Miller's enthusiasm and expand the bike culture that is still in its infancy in Toronto.

Originally seen on High Snobiety but a special thanks to Copenhagenize.com for the video of Miller (who's rocking a sweet TFC scarf).